Trip to farmers market reveals cherry hidden in husk

Ground cherries, a fruit that has a husk similar to tomatillos, are popping up at farmers markets in the Kansas City area. The little gumball shaped fruit have an intriguing taste — cereal at first followed by a reminiscence of a cherry tomato and sweetness of a ripe cherry.

“Ground cherries,” the sign read. The farmer and I had a short conversation because I was on a tight time frame. As soon as I got in my car I opened the bag and delicately peeled back the creamy white husk to reveal a yolk colored fruit.

The first nibble allowed me to dissect the inside while my mouth got acquainted with the new flavor. The seeds were tiny, off white and palatable and a suitcase of gel carried each seed. Pressed tightly together there is hardly any space between the seeds and the flesh, which is delicate with a firm tomatillo-like skin.

The little gumball shaped fruit was equally as intriguing on the taste buds. First there are notes of cereal, a cross between Special K and Total. Followed by reminiscence of a cherry tomato yet with the mellow sweetness and nice bright acidity of a ripe cherry.

Complicated, layered flavor in a cute suitcase, I just may be in love with the ground cherry.

Finding new culinary items spreads a grin on my face just as if a cute man had just smiled at me. I shared the new fruit with the chefs in my kitchen who shared a look of bewilderment, awe and excitement.

Whisk together the honey, milk, egg and butter. Fold in the remaining ingredients. Grease a loaf pan and then pour batter in pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

The texture will be close to a banana bread or zucchini bread. Add a dollop of sour cream or vanilla custard and this is a snack, treat or dessert

Renee Kelly is the owner of Renee Kelly’s Harvest in Johnson County. Her passion lies in changing the food system, one plate at a time. Her inspiration is Mother nature and the many growers in the Kansas City area.